fanny around

B2 informal intransitive

In simple words

To not do what you're supposed to do and just mess around instead.

Literal meaning: Same as 'fanny about' — moving aimlessly.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

uncommon

To behave in an aimless or time-wasting way.

"We can't keep fannying around — the deadline is tomorrow morning."

2 B2 idiomatic informal

rare

To fiddle with something ineffectively or without a clear purpose.

"She was just fannying around with the spreadsheet rather than actually fixing the formula."

Usage notes

Virtually identical to 'fanny about.' British English only. Expresses impatience or frustration. Use with caution in formal or professional settings.

stop all day instead time work

Base

fanny around

I/you/we/they

3rd person

fannies around

he/she/it

Past simple

fannied around

yesterday

Past participle

fannied around

have + pp

-ing form

fannying around

continuous

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